Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Norwalk

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Norwalk, California?

  The non-emergency phone number for the Norwalk police is (562) 863-8711.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Norwalk, California?

  You may obtain a copy of a criminal report in Norwalk by either requesting for it in person at the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department or through the mail at the address below. For more information, visit http://shq.lasdnews.net/shq/TSD/faqs.htm.

  12440 East Imperial Highway, Suite 120 Norwalk, California 90650

• Do you still need a Norwalk criminal defense lawyer if you plan on pleading guilty anyway?

  If you intend to plead guilty to the criminal charges you are facing in Norwalk, you will still benefit from getting a defense attorney. In addition to protecting your constitutional rights, your lawyer can fight for a more favorable plea deal or even a reduction in charges. If there has been any violation of your rights at any time during your case, your attorney might even be able to have your case thrown out completely.

• When will a minor in Norwalk be tried as an adult for a crime?

  If anybody between the ages of 16 and 18 in Norwalk commits a serious crime, such as kidnapping, rape, or murder, it is highly likely that they will be tried as an adult. Under California law, the district attorney is allowed to make a motion to transfer a minor from juvenile court to a court of criminal jurisdiction in such cases.

• Will you get deported if you’re charged with a crime in Norwalk?

  Not necessarily. You won’t be automatically deported if you are charged with a crime in Norwalk. However, being investigated or charged with a crime can threaten your immigration status and your ability to stay in the U.S. If you are convicted of serious crimes like controlled substance offenses, domestic violence, kidnapping, and murder, it is highly likely that you will get deported.

• Who can access your criminal record in Norwalk?

  Norwalk criminal records are considered public documents, meaning anyone in our community can access your criminal record unless your conviction has been set aside or expunged. Aside from your personal information, your criminal record contains your mug shots, fingerprint records, and any data regarding any misdemeanor or felony arrests and convictions.

• Can you clear your criminal record in Norwalk?

  It may be possible for you to remove or expunge a conviction from your criminal record in Norwalk if you have completed probation and are not currently serving any sentence for any offense. If the judge approves your petition for expungement, your prior criminal conviction will be erased from your record and you can get on with your life.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.